3.14 Add User link repeated due to placement within table caption (Observation)

3.14.1 Add User link repeated due to placement within table caption

On the User Account page, the “Add user” link is announced twice by screen readers as: “Add user table Add user link”. This occurs because the link is placed within the <caption> element of the user table. As a result, screen readers interpret and announce the link both as part of the table’s caption and again as a separate interactive link.

This repetition introduces unnecessary auditory clutter for screen reader users, potentially causing confusion by suggesting there are two separate controls or functions. It also disrupts the expected flow and clarity of content for those relying on assistive technologies.

FIGURE 3.22: Add user link highlighted with NVDA speech viewer on the User Account page

3.14.2 Code Snippet

<caption class="govuk-table__caption">
  <div class="govuk-grid-row">
    <div class="govuk-grid-column-one-half">
      List of users
    </div>
    <div class="govuk-grid-column-one-half text--right">
      <a href="/org/settings/organisation/7/add-user">
        <strong>
          <span class="opg-icon opg-icon--plus"></span>
          Add user
        </strong>
      </a>
    </div>
  </div>
</caption>

3.14.3 Recommendation

Move the “Add user” link outside of the <caption> element to avoid redundant announcements. Table captions should be used solely to describe the purpose or contents of the table and not contain actionable elements.

The link can be placed above or below the table in a separate container, preserving visual layout while ensuring cleaner screen reader output.

Example adjustment:

<caption class="govuk-table__caption">List of users</caption>

<div class="govuk-grid-row govuk-!-margin-bottom-2">
  <div class="govuk-grid-column-full text--right">
    <a href="/org/settings/organisation/7/add-user">
      <strong>
        <span class="opg-icon opg-icon--plus"></span>
        Add user
      </strong>
    </a>
  </div>
</div>

3.14.4 Spot Check: February 2026

This issue has not been addressed. The “Add user” link is still placed within the table caption and is announced twice by screen readers.

This remains an ‘Observation’.

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